What Total by Verizon is and who it's for

Total by Verizon is Verizon's device protection and support plan that bundles hardware coverage, technical support, and in some cases identity theft protection into a single monthly subscription. It is not a phone plan itself — it layers on top of your existing Verizon wireless service to cover accidental damage, theft, loss, and repair costs that your standard plan does not.

The plan comes in different versions depending on what device you own and what coverage level you choose. A smartphone plan covers drops, water damage, and theft. A tablet or smartwatch plan covers similar physical damage. Some versions include identity theft monitoring and credit monitoring; others do not. The monthly cost and what is covered varies by device type and the specific plan tier you select.

Total by Verizon is optional — you do not have to buy it when you set up service or buy a device. If you already have Verizon service and want to add it later, you can do so through the My Verizon app, the Verizon website, or by calling Verizon directly.

Key Takeaways

  • Total by Verizon covers accidental damage, water damage, theft, and loss on phones, tablets, and smartwatches, with a deductible you pay when you file a claim.
  • The plan includes 24/7 technical support and device replacement or repair, though replacement devices may be refurbished rather than brand new.
  • Some plan tiers include identity theft monitoring and credit monitoring; check your specific plan to see what is bundled in.
  • You can add Total by Verizon to an existing line at any time, and you can cancel it without penalty if you change your mind.
  • Deductibles range depending on the device and plan tier, and claims are filed through the My Verizon app or by phone.

What damage and loss Total by Verizon covers

Total by Verizon covers accidental physical damage — drops, cracks, water damage from spills or submersion — and also covers theft and loss. If your phone is stolen or you lose it, you can file a claim and receive a replacement device. If you drop your phone and crack the screen, you can file a claim and either have it repaired or replaced depending on the damage.

The plan does not cover normal wear and tear, intentional damage, or damage from misuse (such as using the device in a way the manufacturer did not intend). It also does not cover damage from commercial use or damage that occurred before you enrolled in the plan.

If your device is lost or stolen, you typically have a window of time — usually 30 days — to report it and file a claim. Reporting it quickly is important because Verizon may be able to help locate the device or suspend service to prevent unauthorized use.

Deductibles and out-of-pocket costs when you file a claim

When you file a claim under Total by Verizon, you pay a deductible — a fixed amount out of pocket — and Verizon covers the rest of the repair or replacement cost. The deductible amount depends on the device type and the plan tier you chose. For a smartphone, deductibles typically range from $29 to $99 per claim, though the exact amount varies by device model and plan level.

If your device is repaired rather than replaced, you may also pay a shipping fee to send it in and receive it back, though some repairs are handled in-store at a Verizon location. If your device is replaced, you receive a device and pay only the deductible — Verizon covers the cost of the replacement unit itself.

Replacement devices are often refurbished units rather than brand new. A refurbished device has been tested and restored to working condition but may show signs of previous use. If you want a brand new device instead, you may be able to pay an additional fee to upgrade, though this varies by plan and situation.

Technical support and other services included

All Total by Verizon plans include 24/7 technical support — you can call or chat with a Verizon support agent at any time to troubleshoot problems with your device, get help setting it up, or ask questions about how to use features. This support is available whether or not you have filed a claim.

Some plan tiers also include identity theft monitoring and credit monitoring. These services monitor your credit report and alert you if suspicious activity appears, and they may include identity theft recovery information if your information is compromised. Check your specific plan documents or the My Verizon app to see whether these services are included in the tier you selected.

Total by Verizon also includes device setup information — Verizon can help you transfer data from an old device to a new one, set up email and apps, and configure settings. This service is included at no extra cost beyond your monthly plan fee.

Monthly cost and how to add or remove the plan

The monthly cost of Total by Verizon varies by device type and plan tier. A smartphone plan typically costs between $15 and $25 per month, depending on whether it includes identity theft monitoring and what level of coverage you choose. Tablet and smartwatch plans usually cost less. Verizon's website and the My Verizon app show the exact price for your specific device before you enroll.

You can add Total by Verizon to a line at any time — you do not have to buy it when you first set up service or purchase a device. To add it, open the My Verizon app, go to your line, and look for the protection or insurance section, or call Verizon customer service. The plan typically becomes active within one business day.

You can cancel Total by Verizon at any time without penalty or early termination fee. If you cancel, your coverage ends at the end of your current billing cycle. If you cancel and then want to re-enroll later, you may be able to do so, though Verizon may require a new enrollment period or may exclude pre-existing damage.

How to file a claim and what to expect

To file a claim, open the My Verizon app and navigate to your protection plan section, or call Verizon's claims line. You will need to describe what happened to your device — whether it was damaged, lost, or stolen — and provide details like the device model and the date of the incident. If your device was stolen, you may need to provide a police report number.

Verizon will review your claim and either approve or deny it. If approved, you will be told whether your device will be repaired or replaced, and you will be given instructions on how to proceed. For repairs, you may ship the device to a repair center or take it to a Verizon store. For replacements, a new device will be shipped to you or you can pick it up in store. You pay your deductible at the time you file the claim or when you receive your replacement.

The time it takes to receive a replacement or repaired device varies. In-store repairs may take a few days to a week. Mail-in repairs typically take one to two weeks. Replacements shipped by mail usually arrive within three to five business days. If you need your device urgently, ask Verizon whether a loaner device or expedited shipping is available.

Total by Verizon compared to other protection options

Total by Verizon is one option for device protection, but it is not the only one. Some credit card companies offer purchase protection and accidental damage coverage if you buy a device with their card. Some homeowners or renters insurance policies cover stolen or damaged phones. Some phone manufacturers offer their own protection plans — Apple offers AppleCare+, Samsung offers Samsung Care+, and so on.

The main difference is scope and cost. Total by Verizon covers any device on your Verizon line and includes technical support bundled in. A manufacturer plan like AppleCare+ covers only that specific brand of phone but may offer faster repair or replacement because the manufacturer handles it directly. A credit card benefit is free if you already use that card, but it may have lower coverage limits or longer wait times.

If you switch carriers away from Verizon, your Total by Verizon plan ends and does not transfer. If you buy a device from another carrier, you would need to enroll in that carrier's protection plan or use a manufacturer plan instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add Total by Verizon to a phone I already own?

Yes, you can add Total by Verizon to an existing line at any time. However, Verizon may require that the device be in good working condition at the time you enroll, and coverage typically does not explore to damage that occurred before you signed up. Contact Verizon to confirm whether your specific device is may be able to access.

What happens if I file multiple claims in a short time?

Verizon may investigate if you file multiple claims in a short period to detect patterns of misuse or fraud. If Verizon suspects abuse, it may deny a claim or cancel your plan. Each claim is reviewed individually, and you are responsible for paying the deductible each time you file.

Does Total by Verizon cover water damage if I drop my phone in the pool?

Yes, accidental water damage is covered under Total by Verizon. However, the coverage applies only if the damage was truly accidental — intentional submersion or damage from commercial use would not be covered. File your claim as soon as possible after the incident.

Can I keep my Total by Verizon plan if I switch to a different phone?

Your plan continues, but the coverage applies only to the device currently on your line. If you upgrade to a new phone, you may need to update your plan to reflect the new device model, as deductibles and coverage details vary by device. Contact Verizon to update your enrollment.

What is the difference between a refurbished replacement and a new one?

A refurbished device has been tested, repaired if needed, and restored to working condition, but it may show cosmetic wear or have been used before. A new device is brand new in the box. Most Total by Verizon replacements are refurbished. If you want a new device, ask Verizon whether you can pay an upgrade fee to receive one instead.